Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP) has won the support of a local Lions Club in the Midlands with generous funding to the tune of nearly £12,000.

The valuable Lions support has been a tremendous boost in meeting the running costs of the clinic, which is supported by volunteer optometrists and dispensing opticians. Providing eye examinations and glasses for the homeless and dispossessed in the area, VCHP is based at Sifa Fireside, B9 – a centre for those in need.

The funding was provided by the Knowle and Dorridge Lions, which came about when one of its members, the late Ralph Lilley, volunteered at the centre, along with his wife Margaret.

Explained Barry Dale, President of the Knowle and Dorridge Lions –
“Each year we nominate three charities to be beneficiaries from our Lions Festive Walk, Knowle Fun Run & Easter Egg raffles. Needless to say competition is strong but Vision Care for Homeless People had a head start because not only had one of our Lions nominated them, but most importantly because Lions Clubs International are known as Knights of the Blind.”

Willing volunteers and generous charitable supporters enable VCHP to run eye clinics in the Midlands, Manchester, Brighton and London. Optometrists, dispensing opticians and assistants give their time providing a professional service at the clinics. Further volunteers assist with projects, some working from home, while others take on operational roles. Anyone interested in helping should email: info@vchp.org.uk